French Parliament Approves Controversial Anti-Separatism Bill in First Reading

It was by 347 votes in favor, 151 votes against and 65 abstentions that the deputies adopted the draft law "strengthening respect for the principles of the Republic", a text desired by the President of the Republic, Emmanuel Macron. After days of heated debate, the elected officials were able to silence their differences. There was "no disorder", rejoiced the leader of the LREM deputies, Christophe Castaner. Among the abstaining voters, 10 LREM. Another voted against. PS, communists and RN abstained. As for the LFI and LR parties, they voted against.

Stricter regulation of homeschooling, the offense of "separatism", repression of online hatred, strengthened control of associations, financing of cults... These are among the measures contained in the draft law "strengthening respect for republican principles". After its adoption on first reading, the text will be examined by the Senate on March 30.